Reporting Religion News

In discussing religion news coverage, this chapter assesses the subject from an international, comparative perspective. It discusses the question of defining religion news; the background of journalists in covering religion; news sources for religion news; audience interest in religion news; and how new media change the manner in which religion is covered. In examining religion news, the initial question arises of whether the media's image reflects the reality of the religious event. Key questions concerning religion reporters include background knowledge of religion, and concerns about whether a reporter's own religious background endangers journalistic objectivity. News organizations' activities have branched out to providing online services. Religion journalists and academic researchers can make alternative perspectives available to wider publics through blogs, social media, and specialist religion news sites. Audience interest in the subject will increase because of the multiplier effect: the more coverage, the more audience interest it generates for even more religion news and information.